Jemma Goldstein

How did you get involved in the Nuffield Bursary Programme and why did you want to take part in the programme?

I heard about the Nuffield Bursary Programme through my school which sent pupils information regarding research opportunities.

What did you learn most from your bursary experience?

Whilst the project I worked on taught me a lot about Variable Stars, it is the experience undertaking original research as a whole that is so precious. The opportunity was challenging yet stimulating, developing both my knowledge in my specialist field and my analytical skills.

How have you shared your bursary experience with others at school?

My school were very excited by what I had achieved from my entire bursary experience. I gave a talk at my school’s Science Society to girls in Year 10 upwards and staff, speaking about my project and the bursary.

What are your longer term plans and how did your bursary experience affect these plans?

I hope to go on to study Physics at the University of Manchester – providing I get the grades! I believe my experiences so far, contributed to by the Nuffield Foundation, will allow me to fully encapsulate the demands of a physics degree course.

What was it like exhibiting at the Big Bang? How does it feel to have won the top prize in the Science & Maths category?

Exhibiting at the Big Bang Fair was truly one of the most amazing things I've ever done. To begin with I was extremely nervous, yet as the fair went on, I relaxed and became more confident, thoroughly enjoying the experience by the end.

I never went to the Big Bang Fair expecting anything. So to be told I was one of the top five young scientists in the country was both overwhelming and exhilarating. To be awarded so highly was truly an honour, and such a brilliant feeling, as I felt my hard work and love for my subject had been recognised and appreciated.